Ballot Measure for Rent Control in Long Beach.

Proposed Ballot Measure for Rent Control in Long Beach if passed most certainly faces legal blowback. New information is presented in the April 25th memorandum from City Attorney to City Manager, Patrick West, Mayor and Members of the City Council identified six instances “so far” where if the proposed Ballot Measure for Rent Control in Long Beach ordinance were to pass litigation is certain to follow. Attorney City Staff identifies six different conflicts and warns of possible other City Charter violations within new Proposed Ballot Measure for Rent Control in Long Beach.

I am not shocked by the findings presented in the April 25th memorandum from City Attorney office. Most of the violations pertain to the proposed 5-member Rental Housing Board and their broad and sweeping powers given in the ordinance.

This proposed Ballot Measure also calls for all landlords to pay an annual rental housing fee to pay for a “5-Member Rental Housing Board.” The Rental Housing Board may “at its discretion” adjust the amount of the fee to fund expenses. The Rental Board will also have the sole power to set rents, determine annual allowable rent increase; adjudicate petitions for rent adjustments, establish a budget, and hire staff and charge fees necessary to support the activities of the Rental Board.

So, let me circle back to why I say “Rent Control is a failed policy.” First, it is hard to go against actual data and studies which 99% of all studies concluded Rent Control is a failed policy. But then I recently read a comment from a real person that’s actually had first-hand experience of a Rent Control Ordinance. “Her comment is so powerful I have to share it and let it stand as the last words of this post.”

Theresa says: MARCH 28, 2018 AT 10:46 AM

As someone who lived in San Francisco for a number of years before relocating to Long Beach, I can tell you that rent control only helps renters for the short term, and there are no other benefits after that. I, fortunately (and unfortunately) got into a rent-controlled junior studio for $1500 7 years ago in San Francisco before the boom really hit. And while I had an affordable rate while I lived there, it also kept me from being able to move anywhere else. I found myself trying to figure out how to fit my spouse and a baby in my studio because rent control made it so that the 2 bedroom units in my area were renting for $6k-$8k per month. So yes, rent control will give renters stability for now, but as their lives change and families grow, they’ll probably never be able to afford getting into a bigger place.

I also want to point out the person holding the “no more slumlords” poster in the picture. Want to know what slumlords are really like?! Wait until rent control is enacted and you’ll see how bad it can get. Why would a landlord go above and beyond to make proper repairs on a unit that they are renting out way below market rate? The best you’ll get is the “lipstick on the pig” approach until you move out.

William Feela ~ I hear you loud and clear.... Although this proposed Ballot Measure is sparked by a small few and has nothing to do with Gov. Thankfully, City officials all oppose this small group and their deceiving agenda

Myrl Jeffcoat ~ the answer lies in new housing. Build new affordable housing, and the City has the power to do it. My parents were able to pick from several different developments and they were able to choose a brand new home (price tag $10k.) Those opportunities don't exist anymore... But the way to fix this problem is through building new housing.

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